Grant Thornton Expands in Belfast with 71 New Jobs

Image by Press Eye Photography Pictured with the Minister at the company offices are Mark Cardiff, Head of Audit, Grant Thornton UK LLP and Richard Gillan, Partner in Charge, Grant Thornton NI LLP.

Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Jonathan Bell has announced Grant Thornton is to create 71 new jobs in Belfast.

Grant Thornton is a professional services firm and a member of Grant Thornton International Limited, which operates in over 120 countries.

Speaking at the official opening of the firm’s new offices in Belfast, Jonathan Bell said: “This is an important strategic investment by Grant Thornton, one of the world’s leading independent assurance, tax and advisory firms.

“Invest NI assistance has acted as the catalyst to securing the continued services of this firm in Northern Ireland and the creation of 71 new jobs in this location against competition from other Grant Thornton offices in the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the UK. When the new jobs are in place, they will generate an additional £1.2million per annum for the Northern Ireland economy.

“With roles available across a variety of functions, these jobs will provide a wide range of opportunities for people at various stages of their career, from school leavers to experienced professionals. This decision to expand is a boost for Northern Ireland’s economy and further emphasises the value which Grant Thornton places on the skilled and educated workforce available here.”

Mark Cardiff, Head of Audit, Grant Thornton UK LLP said: "This expansion and opening of our new audit services premises in Belfast marks an exciting chapter in our growth. The quality of our new people and their enthusiasm has exceeded our highest expectations. We are excited to start working with our new team and driving forward the capabilities we have created in Northern Ireland. "

“Invest NI’s on-going assistance has been a key factor in this growth. The support for this project will allow us to strengthen our competitive edge and seek new business opportunities whilst continuing to provide excellent service to all of our clients.”

Richard Gillan, Partner in Charge of Grant Thornton, Northern Ireland LLP, said: “These new positions represent the first step of a growth programme for Grant Thornton in Northern Ireland over the coming years. The professionals employed will be based in Northern Ireland, providing specialist tax, audit and advisory services to local businesses.

“Grant Thornton (NI) LLP has witnessed significant growth over the last 12 months and we expect this trend to continue as we build the team and the firm’s offering of services to an expanding client base.”